How Businesses Can Successfully Integrate AI Into Their Operations

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, but businesses must adopt it strategically to avoid pitfalls like decreased productivity and employee disengagement. Forbes contributors outline key steps for successful AI integration.

AI Is Not a Cure-All

While 63% of executives use AI for text generation (McKinsey & Company), employees often report lower productivity. A 2025 study by University of Chicago and University of Copenhagen researchers found AI chatbots had no significant impact on earnings or hours worked. Forbes contributor Reece Akhtar recommends framing AI as a tool for experimentation, not just scaling operations.

Measuring AI Adoption

Anne Griffin, an AI product consultant, suggests evaluating AI adoption by tracking speed, value creation, and employee agency. Teams using AI creatively—not just prescriptively—show healthier adoption. Vibhas Ratanjee of Gallup emphasizes maintaining human connections in a tech-driven workplace.

Hiring AI Talent

Skills-based hiring and internships can identify AI-savvy candidates. Forbes contributors advise:

• Recruiting from universities with strong AI programs (e.g., Princeton, Emory)
• Prioritizing cross-disciplinary skills (e.g., cognitive science, human-computer interaction)
• Using gender-neutral job descriptions to diversify teams

Upskilling Teams

Barry Libert, CEO of AllMatters, notes that upskilling existing employees is often more cost-effective than automation. Cynthia Pong highlights the importance of training with immediate applications to ensure AI is integrated effectively.

AI Tools to Explore

Christian Stradler recommends tools like:

• LawGeex/Kira Systems: For contract review
• Opus Clip/Runway: For video editing
• Pixlr: For image editing

Key Takeaway

Successful AI adoption requires balancing technology with human-centric strategies. As Sarah Elk of Bain & Company warns, companies that hesitate risk falling behind competitors—and their own employees.